The little cuckoo-dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is a reddish brown pigeon, and is found in Brunei, China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. It is listed as a species of least concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Endangered Species.
Region
Southeast Asia and southern China
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern China through Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and the Malay Peninsula to Borneo, Sumatra, and surrounding islands. Favors forest edges, clearings, and secondary growth as well as lightly wooded plantations and rural gardens near forest. Regular in hill and montane zones but also appears in lowlands where fruiting trees are abundant. Often uses ridgelines and roadside vegetation in upland areas. Adapts well to disturbed habitats provided there is adequate fruit supply.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The little cuckoo-dove is a small, long-tailed pigeon with a warm rufous tone, often seen along forest edges and in hill country. Males tend to be more uniformly rufous, while females show finer dark barring on the breast and wings. It is tolerant of secondary growth and plantations and is commonly encountered at fruiting trees. Its soft, repetitive cooing carries through valleys in the early morning.
Temperament
shy but often confiding near fruiting trees
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose parties at fruiting trees. Nests are flimsy twig platforms placed in low to mid-level branches. Typically lays a single egg and both parents share incubation and chick rearing. Territorial displays include bowing and tail-fanning in the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repetitive series of mellow coos, often delivered from a semi-concealed perch. The notes are even-paced and carry surprisingly far in quiet upland forests.
Plumage
Overall rufous to cinnamon-brown with a sleek, lightly barred appearance; long, graduated tail and slender pigeon build. Females show finer dark barring on the breast and wings; males more uniform rufous. Underparts warm rufous with subtle scaling; tail shows darker subterminal shading.
Diet
Primarily eats small fruits and berries from native trees and shrubs, especially figs and melastomes. Will take fallen fruit and occasionally small seeds. Forages methodically, swallowing fruits whole and later regurgitating pits. Grit may be ingested to aid digestion.
Preferred Environment
Feeds at fruiting trees along forest margins, secondary woodland, and scrub. Frequently visits plantations and gardens adjacent to forest, especially along ridges and forested roadsides.
